Review: THE BOY MOST LIKELY TO by Huntley Fitzpatrick

Title: The Boy Most Likely To
Author: Huntley Fitzpatrick
Published: August 18th 2015
Series: N/A
Genre: YA contemporary
POV: 1st person, dual
Pages: 432
Publisher: Dial Books
Format: electronic ARC
Source: First to Read
Rating: Great

Surprises abound and sparks ignite in the highly anticipated, utterly romantic companion to My Life Next Door

Tim Mason was The Boy Most Likely To:- find the liquor cabinet blindfolded- need a liver transplant- drive his car into a house

Alice Garrett was The Girl Most Likely To:- well, not date her little brother’s baggage-burdened best friend, for starters.

For Tim, it wouldn’t be smart to fall for Alice. For Alice, nothing could be scarier than falling for Tim. But Tim has never been known for making the smart choice, and Alice is starting to wonder if the “smart” choice is always the right one. When these two crash into each other, they crash hard. 

Then the unexpected consequences of Tim’s wild days come back to shock him. He finds himself in a situation that isn’t all it appears to be, that he never could have predicted . . . but maybe should have.

And Alice is caught in the middle. 

Told in Tim’s and Alice’s distinctive, disarming, entirely compelling voices, this return to the world of My Life Next Door is a story about failing first, trying again, and having to decide whether to risk it all once more.

Tim Mason is a boy with many problems - he's trying to stay sober, he's being kicked out of his house, he's totally crushing on his best friend's sister, and his past is about to come back and with quite the surprise. Alice Garrett, meanwhile, is the girl who pulls the strings. When it comes to relationships, she's in charge, and she always knows when to cut loose. But once these two collide and their worlds intertwine, nothing about their lives will ever be the same.

This is a difficult book to talk about, if only because the biggest part of the story isn't revealed for a few chapters (and I won't say anything, since the summary avoids mentioning it). BUT, that aspect of the story makes this an interesting story. Tim and Alice have amazing chemistry for such a strangely matched couple. Their voices are distinct, with both POV's coming off genuinely different. I think I prefer Tim's voice, if only because he's a slightly more unusual main character. Things do get a little soap-opera dramatic in regard to Tim's storyline, but that was likely unavoidable. Romantic, dramatic, and amusing, The Boy Most Likely To is a great story with excellent voices and a fabulous cast of characters. 

Highlights: Tim. He's a complex guy, full of imperfections and plenty of charisma. While Alice was a great main character as well, Tim is the standout for me. The Garrett family make plenty of appearances, and they are as lovely and amusing as ever. But what I loved the most was that book tackles tough subjects and moments in life. Nothing is easy for any of these characters, and I appreciate that authenticity. 

Lowlights: I felt like the storyline became a bit over the top / dramatic for my tastes. It also felt slightly too long. 

Final Thoughts: If you're looking for a summertime read with romance and the harsher side of reality, this story is sure to entertain you while tugging at your heartstrings.

I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher for review consideration. 

This is no way affected my opinion of the novel. 

Review: REBEL MECHANICS by Shanna Swendson

Title: Rebel Mechanics
Author: Shanna Swendson
Published: July 14th, 2015
Series: Rebel Mechanics #1
Genre: YA steampunk/historical
Pages: 320
Publisher: Farrar, Straus & Giroux
Format: Print ARC
Source: Publisher
Rating: Really Liked

A sixteen-year-old governess becomes a spy in this alternative U.S. history where the British control with magic and the colonists rebel by inventing.

It’s 1888, and sixteen-year-old Verity Newton lands a job in New York as a governess to a wealthy leading family—but she quickly learns that the family has big secrets. Magisters have always ruled the colonies, but now an underground society of mechanics and engineers are developing non-magical sources of power via steam engines that they hope will help them gain freedom from British rule. The family Verity works for is magister—but it seems like the children's young guardian uncle is sympathetic to the rebel cause. As Verity falls for a charming rebel inventor and agrees to become a spy, she also becomes more and more enmeshed in the magister family’s life. She soon realizes she’s uniquely positioned to advance the cause—but to do so, she’ll have to reveal her own dangerous secret.

Highlights: Rebel Mechanics plays with history and gives it a delightfully alternate twist, where magic powers nineteenth century life and the wealthy families who wield it will do anything to keep the normal citizens from using more creative, mechanical methods to gain some power of their own. An incredibly fun and magical steampunk story, Rebel Mechanics is sure to entertain readers with its many curious inventions, secrets, and deceptions (not to mention Lord Henry, he is quite charming and I wish there had been so much more of him in the story). 

Lowlights: I wanted to love this book - steampunk! Rebels! Magic! But despite all the pros, I felt like something wasn't quite there. As a narrator, Verity can be pretty naive, which can get a bit frustrating at times. Characters, overall, while interesting, were not developed enough to really have a spark - there wasn't enough about them to capture my interest or attention. I think it's merely a matter of writing style, and this book being enjoyable enough but not entirely to my preferences. Additionally, the story was incredibly predictable, so all of the "surprises" were not very surprising.

Final Thoughts: My lowlights make it sound like I didn't enjoy the story - quite the opposite, I was entertained throughout the entire novel. But, as much fun as the story proved to be, it didn't make a memorable impression. However, many readers are falling head-over-heels for this story, so I'd recommend checking it out if you're a YA steampunk / historical fan! 

I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher for review consideration. 

This is no way affected my opinion of the novel. 

Mini-Review: THIS LULLABY by Sarah Dessen

Image from PenguinTeen

Title: This Lullaby
Author: Sarah Dessen
Published: 2012 (reissue)
Series: N/A
Genre: YA contemporary
POV: 1st person
Pages: 345
Publisher: Speak
Format: Paperback
Source: Publicist (for review)
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf.

She's got it all figured out.

Or does she? When it comes to relationships, Remy's got a whole set of rules.

Never get too serious. Never let him break your heart. And never, ever date a musician.

But then Remy meets Dexter, and the rules don't seem to apply anymore.

Could it be that she's starting to understand what all those love songs are about?

Remy Starr is used to watching relationships fail - her mother, novelist Barbara Starr, is on marriage number five, while Remy is an expert in knowing when to break things off in her own love life. But when a clumsy musician named Dexter bursts into her well-ordered life, Remy finds that her usual rules in romance don't apply, and she might need to give up the rules she clings to if she wants a real shot at love. If you're looking for a sweet summer romance, a slightly complicated family, and a novel with awesome BFF's, This Lullaby is the story for you. 

Highlights: Easily one of Dessen's better novels¹, This Lullaby is a delightful mixture of sweet and serious. Remy is one of Dessen's more mature and slightly pessimistic protagonists, with her cynical view on love and messy history. She's blunt, in your face, and isn't afraid to say whatever is on her mind, whether or not you want to hear it². The love interest, Dexter, is an endearing sort of awkward, quirky, and sweet. Dessen takes care to flesh out each side character out with their own distinct personalities, and manages to create quite a few wonderful characters. While the romance is fun to read, the friendships and familial bonds are equally intriguing and well written. 

Lowlights: Hate Spinnerbait³.

Allusions: Scarlett Thomas from Someone Like You makes an appearance. And any Dessen fan will recognize many of the locations as well, since they are featured in Dessen's other books.

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf: Loved, 5 out of 5. A story with fresh, believable characters and a unique protagonist, This Lullaby is more than just your typical love story.  

Saint Anything | The Moon and More | What Happened to Goodbye

Along for the Ride | Lock & Key | That Summer

Just Listen | The Truth About Forever | Dreamland

 Keeping the Moon | Someone Like You

1 The Truth About Forever and Along for the Ride are still my top favorites, but this one comes close.
2 Naturally, she rocks. It's nice to read a Dessen book with a protagonist who is full of attitude. Very different from her other heroines!
3 Sorry. I had to put it somewhere.

Review: I'LL GIVE YOU THE SUN by Jandy Nelson

Title: I'll Give You the Sun
Author: Jandy Nelson (@JandyNelson)
Published: September 16th, 2014
Series: N/A
Genre: YA contemporary
POV: 1st person, dual
Print Length: 371 pages
Audio Length: 12 hours, 57 Minutes
Publisher: Dial Books
Format: Audiobook | Print
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Treasure Vault

Jude and her twin brother, Noah, are incredibly close. At thirteen, isolated Noah draws constantly and is falling in love with the charismatic boy next door, while daredevil Jude cliff-dives and wears red-red lipstick and does the talking for both of them. But three years later, Jude and Noah are barely speaking. Something has happened to wreck the twins in different and dramatic ways . . . until Jude meets a cocky, broken, beautiful boy, as well as someone else—an even more unpredictable new force in her life. The early years are Noah's story to tell. The later years are Jude's. What the twins don't realize is that they each have only half the story, and if they could just find their way back to one another, they’d have a chance to remake their world.

This radiant novel from the acclaimed, award-winning author of The Sky Is Everywhere will leave you breathless and teary and laughing—often all at once.

I remember falling head over heels in love with Jandy Nelson's debut novel, The Sky Is Everywhere when it first published five years ago. So, I had high hopes for her newest release, I'll Give You the Sun. But once all of the glowing reviews started pouring in, I became a little nervous, since too much hype can set the bar too high and ultimately ruin a good story. So, I continued to set this story aside, again and again. However, once I got the audio version, I decided to dive right in and hope this story had been worth the wait. 

And what a novel to dive into - I'll Give You the Sun is an emotionally explosive story that cannonballs straight into your heart. Alternating between a younger Noah (ages 13 and 14) and a 16-year-old Jude, the twins share secrets of their past and present with the reader, and slowly untangle the mystery surrounding their peculiar lives. Between Jude's superstitious nature (and tendency to see her dead grandmother) and Noah's peculiar and artistic view of the world, these characters manage to be both realistically human and utterly effervescent. Nelson outdid herself with this story, these characters, and her vivid writing style. A truly magnificent novel, I'll Give You the Sun is a book you do not want to miss. 

Highlights: Not only were Jude and Noah wonderfully developed, but the side characters were equally fleshed out too. Some were quirky, some were normal, but all seemed like real people with real attributes and flaws. Nelson ties the two narratives, past and present, together expertly. But it's her writing style that brings this story to life - the descriptions are full of life, practically bursting off the pages. I could highlight lines all day when it comes to this story. Both romances are wonderfully written, and the tension between characters is so electric and alive. The topics involved vary from issues with sexuality to dealing with the wrongs of the past. All in all, I have no complaints when it comes to this novel. Truly incredible, I could praise I'll Give You the Sun all day and never quite describe how outstanding this story is. 

Lowlights: I waited WAY too long to finally to check this out. Definitely a lowlight¹.

Audiobook: Julia Whelan and Jesse Berstein are, in a single word, phenomenal narrators. I cannot even choose which was better - they were both excellent, expertly bringing the story to life with every single word. They made me forget I listening to an audiobook and become completely swept away by Jude and Noah's story. They both pulled off the various characters with ease, and their voices were well-suited to such a colorful, flowing style of writing. 

Rating: The Treasure Vault: 5+ out of 5, Favorite. I'll Give You the Sun  is a marvelous story that has quickly become a favorite story worthy of treasuring. Vivid, evocative, mysterious, humorous, and heartbreaking, this novel will tug at your emotions and leave you with the desire to start rereading it all over again. I'd highly recommend this novel, and especially the audiobook version, since Jesse Berstein and Julia Whelan add a little extra spark to an already lively story.

1 *shakes head at self in disappointment* I should have read it sooner! Can't believe I waited so long.

Review: THE WINNER'S CRIME by Marie Rutkoski

Title: The Winner's Crime
Author: Marie Rutkoski (@marierutkoski)
Published: March 3rd, 2015
Series: The Winner's Trilogy #2
Genre: YA fantasy
POV: 3rd person, dual
Pages: 416
Publisher: Farrar, Straus, & Giroux BYR
Format: Print ARC
Source: Publisher
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Book two of the dazzling Winner's Trilogy is a fight to the death as Kestrel risks betrayal of country for love.

The engagement of Lady Kestrel to Valoria’s crown prince means one celebration after another. But to Kestrel it means living in a cage of her own making. As the wedding approaches, she aches to tell Arin the truth about her engagement…if she could only trust him. Yet can she even trust herself? For—unknown to Arin—Kestrel is becoming a skilled practitioner of deceit: an anonymous spy passing information to Herran, and close to uncovering a shocking secret.

As Arin enlists dangerous allies in the struggle to keep his country’s freedom, he can’t fight the suspicion that Kestrel knows more than she shows. In the end, it might not be a dagger in the dark that cuts him open, but the truth. And when that happens, Kestrel and Arin learn just how much their crimes will cost them.

Separated by one fateful decision in The Winner's Curse, Kestrel and Arin find themselves on different sides. Kestrel is playing a dangerous game of words, actions, and politics, trying to keep the Emperor pleased while secretly doing anything she can to help the people of Herran. Arin, meanwhile, is thrust into an unwanted position of power, and he'll have to go to great lengths to earn a true freedom for Herran. Family, honor, love, and sacrifice, The Winner's Crime is an outstanding sequel. 

Secrets, lies, deceit, and danger linger in every corner of Kestrel and Arin's lives. Rutkoski builds the emotions of the story, starting with a simple, slow flow until everything comes crashing down with intensity. She makes you care for these characters, and every page will leave you with the desire to keep reading on. Well-paced, and thoroughly captivating, Rutkoski raises the stakes with The Winner's Crime, and refuses to give her characters (and readers) a moment to rest. Exciting, shocking, and simply incredible, this trilogy needs to be on your to-read list. 

Highlights: Rutkoski develops the world of this trilogy further, revealing fascinatingly unique locations and expanding on myth and history of each one. But even better, Kestrel and Arin begin to take more action - whether or it's daring risks or playing a dangerous game of politics, every move matters. Side characters are equally fascinating, especially the conniving (and frightening) Emperor. Family and relationships still play a strong role in the story. And, as always, Rutkoski's writing is stunning and evocative, bringing each character, location, and emotion to life in the most vivid way possible. 

Lowlights: I miss the romance. There are a couple moments between Arin and Kestrel, but these two are unable to be together in this story. I hated the lack of communication between them, because it was frustrating to read. AND THAT ENDING. It's going to be a long wait for the final book. 

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. Loved, 4+ out of 5. A compelling and emotional sequel, The Winner's Crime will leave you heartbroken, shocked, and so very eager for the final installment.

Highlights / Lowlights: THE PROGRAM by Suzanne Young

Title: The Program
Author: Suzanne Young (@suzanne_young)
Published: April 30th, 2013
Series: Chantress #1
Genre: YA Dystopian
Publisher: Simon Pulse
POV: 1st person
Pages: 408
Format: Ebook
Source: PulseIt
Rating: Tea Party

"In Sloane’s world, true feelings are forbidden, teen suicide is an epidemic, and the only solution is The Program.

Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.

Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in. And The Program is coming for them." 

Highlights: A story where a suicide epidemic forces adults to take drastic measures to "fix" their children with The Program? This claustrophobic, futuristic world is kind of horrifying, but it's hard to look away once you start The Program. The relationship between Sloane and James is utterly endearing and genuine. I believe it when these two are together -- their connection, their feelings, all of it is very well written. Sloane's memories of her brother were sweet and sad. For a story set in a world that stifles emotions, Sloane's life is a whirlwind of emotion, and I felt every bit of it. 

Lowlights: Realm, and the weak romance he had with Sloane. I felt a bit disconnected to Sloane's character, so nothing bad that happened to or around her ever made a lasting, meaningful impact on me. I had trouble connecting because Sloane seems to have no personality, and all I really know about her is that she loves James. I'm also curious to know more about how the suicide epidemic came about. It seems to me that teens that are committing suicide because all of the adults are forcing them to it, so I'm not sure if I buy into that aspect of the story.

Rating: Tea Party: Liked, 3+ out of 5. Despite the issues I had with this novel, I still really liked The Program. From what I've been able to gather, I seem to be in the minority with this book, since many people seemed to genuinely love it. So, if you're in any way curious, I say go for it! 

Review: FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS by Leigh Ann Kopans

Title: First World Problems
Author: Leigh Ann Kopans
Published: September 2nd, 2014
Genre: YA / NA contemporary
POV: 1st person
Pages: 300
Publisher: Self-published
Format: eARC
Source: Author
Rating: The Royal Library, Bottom Shelf

Sofia's had a really rough year - busted for cheating at prep school, dumped for the first time ever, and her new non-profit working stepmother is turning out to be an uppity bitch.

She deserves to treat herself. But when she throws herself a birthday party with 20 of her closest friends in Paris and (accidentally!) maxes out her dad's credit card in the process, he’s had enough of her attitude. As punishment, he switches her planned gap year touring Europe to one doing community service work with the evil stepmother’s relief organization in Guyana.

The rural village of Dabu needs help in every area from education to getting safe drinking water. But Sofia’s more concerned about her roommate Callum, the gardening expert, who calls Sofia "Princess" and scoffs at her distaste for sweaty, muddy, iguana-eating, outhouse-using life in Guyana.

Eventually, life on the equator, her work in the village, and especially Callum - with his brooding eyes and bewitching New Zealand accent - start to grow on Sofia. Life is rough in Guyana, but it’s roughest on the girls, whose families are too poor to send only the most promising boys in school. They’re trapped in a cycle that will keep them from ever making a better life for themselves, or for the village. Worse, Callum doesn’t seem to think any of the changes Sofia envisions are actually necessary.

Determined to change the girls’ futures, she comes up with a strategy to help them and, ultimately, the village. But what starts out as a plan to convince Callum and her father that she’s fallen in love with Guyana, turns into the realization that maybe she’s falling for Callum, too. And that by changing these girls’ lives, she might also be changing her own.

Sofia is the girl who has it all - or that's at least what she wants everyone to think. After her father misses her birthday and she spends a ridiculous some of money on an even more ridiculous party, Sofia finds herself being shipped off to Guyana to give back through community service. From sleeping in a hammock to completing unpleasant tasks, Sofia has a lot to do to convince her parents that she's truly changed so she can go home....Charming and hilarious, First World Problems is a wonderfully entertaining story to read.

It's obvious from page one that Sofia isn't the type of girl most people would like, and Kopans doesn't shy away from revealing all of Sofia's flaws and putting them on display. She's privileged, knows it, and doesn't hesitate to do whatever it takes to get what she wants. But, somehow, Sofia grows into a character you want to root for. And, I eventually found myself appreciating her brand of humor, intelligence, and newly acquired outlook on life. The lush, descriptive Guyana setting and variety of characters make First World Problems an engaging story. The story builds at a slow pace, but there's never a dull moment. A humorous novel with a wonderful message, First World Problems is entertaining from start to finish. 

Highlights: Sofia's development is gradual, realistic, and in the end, she becomes a better version of herself. This story is about coming of age, learning to appreciate what you have, and giving back, and Kopans portrays every theme perfectly. The romance is very slowly developed into something sweet, but there are a few realistic bumps in the road. The setting is incredibly easy to visualize, and Kopans brings the village and its inhabitants to life with every word. The side characters are fantastic, I only wish a few had been featured more. While the storyline is easy to predict, the characters and setting make this novel unique and a pleasure to read. 

Lowlights: A bit predictable, with few overly dramatic moments (but I think the latter is to be expected with a character like Sofia).

Rating: The Royal Library, Bottom Shelf (low 4 out of 5). First World Problems is great and worth reading, and it earns a spot on the bottom shelves of the royal library. I enjoyed it enough to want to read it more than once, but I do have some issues with the story that I cannot ignore. Regardless, a vivid setting, diverse characters, and fun writing make First World Problems an incredibly enjoyable read. 

I received an advanced copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. 

This is no way affected my opinion of this novel.

Review: LIV, FOREVER by Amy Talkington

Title: Liv, Forever
Author: Amy Talkington (@amytalkington)
Published: March 2014
Series: N/A
Genre: YA Paranormal
POV: 1st person
Pages: 280
Publisher: Soho Teen
Format: Print ARC
Source: Vine Program
Rating: The Royal Library, Bottom Shelf

When Liv Bloom lands an art scholarship at Wickham Hall, it’s her ticket out of the foster system. Liv isn’t sure what to make of the school’s weird traditions and rituals, but she couldn’t be happier. For the first time ever, she has her own studio, her own supply of paints. Everything she could want.

Then she meets Malcolm Astor, a legacy student, a fellow artist, and the one person who’s ever been able to melt her defenses. Liv’s only friend at Wickham, fellow scholarship kid Gabe Nichols, warns her not to get involved, but life is finally going Liv’s way, and all she wants to do is enjoy the ride.

But Liv’s bliss is doomed. Weeks after arriving, she is viciously murdered and, in death, she discovers that she’s the latest victim of a dark conspiracy that has claimed many lives. Cursed with the ability to see the many ghosts on Wickham’s campus, Gabe is now Liv’s only link to the world of the living. To Malcolm.

Together, Liv, Gabe, and Malcolm fight to expose the terrible truth that haunts the halls of Wickham. But Liv must fight alone to come to grips with the ultimate star-crossed love.

Initially, my expectations were incredibly low for this book. For whatever reason, the combination of the cover and summary only made me roll my eyes. The only reason I decided to read this story is because I read a glowing review from Melissa at I Swim For Oceans. I think she has fabulous taste in stories, so I took a chance. Even so, I entered with the feeling I might be disappointed, and was pleasantly surprised. Liv Bloom is only at her ritzy school for a short time – long enough to fall in love with legacy Malcolm Astor, start her art work, and unfortunately become murdered. Awakening as a ghost, she's determined to find out what happened to her with a little help from Gabe – a student who sees all of the ghosts of girls who have been killed at Wickham Hall – and Malcolm, the three of them seek the truth.

While a few aspects are a bit transparent regarding the mystery, Talkington's novel is still undeniably entertaining. Liv is a protagonist you want to succeed, and the horror aspects of this story are written in the just the right way to give you chills. The relationships within Liv, Forever sold this novel for me. Liv and Malcolm are a surprisingly sweet couple, and Liv's friendship with Gabe is wonderful too. There's plenty of small moments of humor mixed in with the serious, and Liv, Forever proves to be a book that will keep you reading long after you meant to set it aside for the day.

Highlights: The rules of being a ghost were interesting to discover – Liv can interact with the world around her, somewhat, but it's limited. The pages detailing the deaths of the other girls were incredibly eerie, and set the right tone for the story. Liv's a great protagonist, and her artistic nature shows through (I liked her references to other artist's works). The mystery was interesting, and the ending was a surprise. Descriptions were fantastic, Talkington excelled at bringing her setting and characters to life. 

Lowlights: I saw a few aspects coming, and a few more seemed a bit cliched. But, still a highly entertaining story.

Rating: The Royal Library, Bottom Shelf (4 out of 5). Liv, Forever was much better than I expected, and I think this is a story worth reading. It's dark, mysterious, amusing, and full of surprises. 

I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. 

This is no way affected my opinion of the novel.

Review: ELLA ENCHANTED by Gail Carson Levine

Title: Ella Enchanted
Author: Gail Carson Levine
Published: Originally in 1997
Genre: YA Fantasy
Publisher: Scholastic
Age: Middle Grade*
POV: 1st person
Pages: 232
Format: Paperback & Kindle
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Treasure Vault

How can a fairy's blessing be such a curse?

At her birth, Ella of Frell was given a foolish fairy's gift--the "gift" of obedience. Ella must obey any order given to her, whether it's hopping on one foot for a day or chopping off her own head!

But strong-willed Ella does not tamely accept her fate. She goes on a quest, encountering ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, fairy godmothers, and handsome princes, determined to break the curse--and live happily ever after.

What if you had to obey every command you were given? Ella of Frell, thanks to a "gift" given to her from the fairy Lucinda, has been cursed with such compulsion to be obedient ever since she was an infant. After her mother's death, her father catches the interest of Dame Olga. Dame Olga's two daughters, Hattie and Olive, take an unfortunate interest in Ella, and Ella quickly finds that hiding her obedience will be even more difficult than usual. Throw in a charming prince, some deadly and hungry ogres, and a coming-of-age journey to find a somewhat annoying fairy godmother, and you have the excellency that is Ella Enchanted.

Delightfully magical, Ella Enchanted gives a fresh twist to an old classic. Ella may be forcibly obedient, but she's fiercely determined to fight against her curse and not let it ruin her life. Despite how lighthearted some of the elements in this story seem, Gail Carson Levine touches on emotion quite genuinely. This book is simply charming, amusing, heartfelt, and truly wonderful. As a kid I adored this novel and Ella's stubborn, take-action personality. Even now as an adult, I still love and adore this novel. I would highly recommend Ella Enchanted to fantasy fans looking for something familiar, but with a few new, intriguing twists. 

Highlights: Amusing, sweet but also a sharp-witted fairytale with a twist. Prince Char, because he is obviously quite charming. Vivid descriptions bring the magic to life, and especially the various mythical creatures. Mandy is an excellent side character. As a protagonist, Ella is so smart, easy to adore, and determined. But, she's still capable of making mistakes, and that only made me root for her more. The various relationships, both good and bad, are wonderfully developed. The themes of this novel are fantastic, and I love how Gail Carson Levine delves into relatable issues while still keeping that fairytale charm. 

Lowlights: The larger plot is predictable (since this is a Cinderella retelling), but it's not very problematic, since Gail Carson Levine infuses plenty of creativity and fresh twists to keep readers on their toes. Not enough pages? That is problematic!

Rating: The Treasure Vault (5+ out of 5). Ella Enchanted is an old favorite and is worthy of keeping company with the crown jewels. I'd highly recommend this novel to other readers. If I could give this book a palace of it's own, I would. 

* I first read this novel when I was 9 or 10 years old, and adored it. This book seems to be Middle Grade, but as an adult, I can see this book as being a slightly younger YA novel, too (or an older MG story). Ella's age (15/16) makes it seem like a YA, but the content is very tame.

Review: TIGER LILY by Jodi Lynn Anderson

Title: Tiger Lily

Author: Jodi Lynn Anderson (@jodilynna)
Published: July 3rd, 2012
Series: N/A
Genre: YA fantasy
Publisher: HarperTeen
POV: 1st person / 3rd person
Pages: 309
Format: Kindle Book
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Before Peter Pan belonged to Wendy, he belonged to the girl with the crow feather in her hair. . . .

Fifteen-year-old Tiger Lily doesn't believe in love stories or happy endings. Then she meets the alluring teenage Peter Pan in the forbidden woods of Neverland and immediately falls under his spell.

Peter is unlike anyone she's ever known. Impetuous and brave, he both scares and enthralls her. As the leader of the Lost Boys, the most fearsome of Neverland's inhabitants, Peter is an unthinkable match for Tiger Lily. Soon, she is risking everything—her family, her future—to be with him. When she is faced with marriage to a terrible man in her own tribe, she must choose between the life she's always known and running away to an uncertain future with Peter.

With enemies threatening to tear them apart, the lovers seem doomed. But it's the arrival of Wendy Darling, an English girl who's everything Tiger Lily is not, that leads Tiger Lily to discover that the most dangerous enemies can live inside even the most loyal and loving heart.

My Thoughts

When it came to Tiger Lily, my interest level was decidedly zero. For some reason, the summary never caught my attention, and even though I love retellings and Tinker Bell, I'm barely familiar with the tale of Peter Pan and only know the basic information. So, this book really didn't interest me at all¹. Yet, I have a weakness for Kindle deals², so I took a chance on spending two dollars and decided to give it a shot. In the two days it took to read this story, I was captivated, overwhelmed, and completely surprised by how exceptional of a story Tiger Lily proved to be. 

Narrated by Tinker Bell, the story focuses on Tiger Lily, a member of the Sky Eater tribe, and her relationship with Peter Pan of the Lost Boys. There's romance and friendship, fun games and boring chores, deadly pirates and eavesdropping fairies, bitter betrayal and cold jealousy, hungry crocodiles and conniving mermaids, and so much more. The world in this story is so full, brimming with life and characters that demand your attention. I had no idea what to expect, but I definitely was not anticipating such an emotional story that brings up larger issues. Tiger Lily is the type of story that delves into familiar territory, but brings something new to such an old tale. Emotional and evocative, Tiger Lily is a story that you shouldn't miss out on. 

Highlights

There are some small moments where Anderson's words pulled at my emotions. There are truly some lovely and wonderful (and wonderfully sad) lines in this story. Tinker Bell's love for these characters was infectious, and it was easy to adore them too. This isn't just a tale about romance, but of family, friendship, and the great and terrible things we do for the people we love. This book is more about emotion, than anything else, and Anderson brings it all right to surface for her readers to feel. 

Lowlights

Tinker Bell focuses so much Tiger Lily, this story reads like a 3rd person novel. It would have been nice to know more about Tink, to hear a bit more about herself. 

Final Rating

The Royal Library, Top Shelf. This book is so close to 5 stars, but it's not quite there. Regardless, Tiger Lily has earned a spot on my top shelf, and is a story worth reading. I highly recommend it.

1 Even all the fangirling from the lovely Epic Reads ladies didn't convince me. I obviously should have listened to them. Those gals have great bookish taste. LESSON LEARNED.
2 Seriously, it's sad. I see a YA Kindle deal, and I pounce.

Review: TO ALL THE BOYS I'VE LOVED BEFORE by Jenny Han

Title: TO ALL THE BOYS I'VE LOVED BEFORE
Author: Jenny Han
Published: April 15th, 2014
Series: To All The Boys I've Loved Before #1
Genre: YA contemporary
Pages: 368
POV: 1st person
Publisher: Simon and Schuster BYR
Format: Print ARC
Source: Vine Program
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

What if all the crushes you ever had found out how you felt about them…all at once?

Lara Jean Song keeps her love letters in a hatbox her mother gave her. They aren’t love letters that anyone else wrote for her; these are ones she’s written. One for every boy she’s ever loved—five in all. When she writes, she pours out her heart and soul and says all the things she would never say in real life, because her letters are for her eyes only. Until the day her secret letters are mailed, and suddenly, Lara Jean’s love life goes from imaginary to out of control.

The concept for Jenny Han's latest YA contemporary To All the Boys I've Loved Before is likely every teenage girls worst nightmare, and Han pulls it off wonderfully. Lara Jean [Song] Covey is an apprehensive driver, middle sister, and a quiet, all-around good girl (plus, she has very classy taste in clothing). But, when the five love letters she keeps put away in her deceased mother's old hatbox are mailed to the boys, Lara Jean's life becomes a bit more complicated as she tries to control the damage in any way she can, with a little help from one of the recipients...

To All the Boys I've Loved Before is fun, flirty, awkward, and incredibly entertaining. Lara Jean is an easy girl to relate with, and much braver than she gives herself credit for. I was entirely unsure of what to expect from this novel, and Han surprised me with the directions she took. But, like all Han stories, this novel features realistically flawed characters, a strong emphasis on family, a complicated yet very sweet romance, and healthy dose of drama to tie it all together in one messy but realistic bow. To All the Boys I've Loved Before  is a sweet story that will make you feel a variety of emotions, and enjoy every second of it.

Highlights: Han excels at creating realistically flawed human beings. They make smart decisions and silly mistakes, they bicker and fight, they make you smile, they make you sigh with annoyance, and they make you chuckle under your breath. Lara Jean's family is very present in her life, and even when everything is chaos, they are still there for each other. 

Lowlights: I wasn't ready for the story to end. The romance aspect is only just beginning, and I'm curious to see where the sequel will take readers. 

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf (high 4 out of 5). While I love Han's The Summer I Turned Pretty much more, To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a wonderful story about family, friendship, and romance. 

Mini-Review: UNBREAK MY HEART by Melissa Walker

Title: Unbreak My Heart
Author: Melissa Walker
Published: May 2012
Genre: YA Contemporary
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Pages: 232
POV: 1st person
Format: Kindle eBook
Source: Purchased
Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf.

"Sophomore year broke Clementine Williams’ heart. She fell for her best friend’s boyfriend and long story short: he’s excused, but Clem is vilified and she heads into summer with zero social life.

Enter her parents’ plan to spend the summer on their sailboat. Normally the idea of being stuck on a tiny boat with her parents and little sister would make Clem break out in hives, but floating away sounds pretty good right now.

Then she meets James at one of their first stops along the river. He and his dad are sailing for the summer and he’s just the distraction Clem needs. Can he break down Clem’s walls and heal her broken heart?"

Considering the plot – a girl who falls head-over-heels for her best friend's boyfriend and consequently becomes a social outcast because of that choice – I expected to dislike Unbreak My Heart. But, Walker skillfully portrays Clem's character in such a way that she quickly became someone readers can enjoy, forgive, understand, and even relate to. Alternating between the past and present, Clem narrates both her past actions / life and her current summertime journey on a sailboat with her family. There is a romance, that much is obvious from the cover alone, but there are also other relationships being created and mended – namely, Clem's relationship with her family and with herself. Unbreak My Heart is an unexpected pleasure, delving honestly into love, family, and friendship. 

Highlights: James is an incredibly vibrant character, and I really wish the reader could have seen his drawings. Clem's family, especially her little sister Olive, are definite highlights. This story is very focused on friends and families, which I always love. Sailing for the summer is a different plot point for me, and I love how Walker shows the ups and downs of such a "vacation." Even Clem is a highlight, if only because I didn't expect to like her so much, and she proved to be a wonderful protagonist worth rooting for. 

Lowlights: Clem can be a bit bratty and her moody behavior can be a bit much at times, but it adds to her realism (considering her age). I wish there was more closure for Amanda and Clem, I'm curious to know how things worked out between them. Also, the cover. The image is great, but that darn heart and cheesy pink may scare away some readers (like me). 

Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf (normal/high 4 out of 5). This book is fantastic, worth owning, and has earned a spot in the royal library. I enjoyed this story very much, despite a few small issues, and would recommend this book to other readers.

Highlights / Lowlights: FIND ME by Romily Bernard

Title: FIND ME
Author: Romily Bernard (Twitter)
Published: September 2013
Series: Find Me #1
Genre: YA mystery
Pages: 307
POV: 1st person
Publisher: HarperTeen
Format: ARC
Source: Vine Program
Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf

“Find Me.”

These are the words written on Tessa Waye’s diary. The diary that ends up with Wick Tate. But Tessa’s just been found . . . dead.

Wick has the right computer-hacking skills for the job, but little interest in this perverse game of hide-and-seek. Until her sister Lily is the next target.

Then Griff, trailer-park boy next door and fellow hacker, shows up, intent on helping Wick. Is a happy ending possible with the threat of Wick’s deadbeat dad returning, the detective hunting him sniffing around Wick instead, and a killer taunting her at every step?

Foster child. Daughter of a felon. Loner hacker girl. Wick has a bad attitude and sarcasm to spare.

But she’s going to find this killer no matter what.

Because it just got personal.

Highlights: Find Me is a story that readers will easily devour, thanks to the short chapters that are bursting with action. The romance was likable, if only because it did not overwhelm the story. This is first and foremost a mystery, and Bernard does not disappoint readers. Even though I guessed the culprit, a few red herrings made me second guess myself at every turn of the page. A strong sense of family (blood or not), and learning what it means to be family, is present. From the sugary sweet to the intimidatingly terrifying, characters were realistically written. Every single time I told myself I'd stop at the end of the chapter, I'd keep going. This was, truly, a hard novel to set aside. Wick's voice is sharp, fresh, and likable - she's no cookie-cutter heroine, and I enjoyed her character all the more for it. If you're looking for a fast-paced mystery that will keep you hooked, Find Me is the perfect story. 

Lowlights: I guessed the killer from the beginning¹. Sometimes it felt a bit too fast-paced, it would have been nice to slow things down and get to know the characters a bit more – connect with them more.

Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf (high 4 out of 5). Find Me is fantastic, worth owning, and has earned a spot in the royal library. I enjoyed Find Me very much, despite a few small issues, and would recommend this story to other readers who want to read an intriguing and surprising YA mystery. 

1 But, I'm very good at solving mysteries in novels. I should be a detective!²
2 Okay, maybe not. I'd probably accuse a bunch of innocent people, and it would just be terrible. 

Review: THE WINNER'S CURSE by Marie Rutkoski

Title: THE WINNER'S CURSE
Author: Marie Rutkoski
Published: March 4th, 2014
Series: The Winner's Trilogy #1
Genre: YA Fantasy
Pages: 368
POV: 3rd, multiple
Publisher: Farrar Straus Giroux
Format: Printed ARC, e-ARC
Source: Publicist
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Winning what you want may cost you everything you love 

As a general’s daughter in a vast empire that revels in war and enslaves those it conquers, seventeen-year-old Kestrel has two choices: she can join the military or get married. But Kestrel has other intentions.

One day, she is startled to find a kindred spirit in a young slave up for auction. Arin’s eyes seem to defy everything and everyone. Following her instinct, Kestrel buys him—with unexpected consequences. It’s not long before she has to hide her growing love for Arin.

But he, too, has a secret, and Kestrel quickly learns that the price she paid for a fellow human is much higher than she ever could have imagined.

Set in a richly imagined new world, The Winner’s Curse by Marie Rutkoski is a story of deadly games where everything is at stake, and the gamble is whether you will keep your head or lose your heart.

I knew going into The Winner's Curse that this would be a novel worth reading, if only because of how much I loved the creativity featured in Rutkoski's The Shadow Society. But even knowing that, I was still amazed by how outstanding this novel turned out to be. The story revolves around two main characters: Kestral, a Valerian and the daughter of a great military General, and Arin, a Herrani slave whom Kestral buys on impulse at an auction. Kestral is expected to join the military, while Arin must do whatever it takes to survive as one of the Herrani slaves. Despite their different stations in life, Kestral and Arin slowly form a forbidden friendship that could change the fate of their world's future.

Rutkoski excels at painting a vivid picture within her readers' minds – the characters, the world, the culture, everything proved to be easy enough to envision and imagine. But, it was the characters who stole the show. From Kestral's observant and strategic nature to Arin's subtle intelligence and sharp personality, it was easy to root for both of them. Even the side characters were wonderfully developed, and continually intriguing. I went into this expecting a good story, but Rutkoski delivered a quiet, stunning tale that pleasantly surprised me. The Winner's Curse is a surprising, captivating tale of family, love, and honor. This book? It should be on your to-read list. Or, better yet, your bookshelf.

Highlights: The romance is slow, subtle, and almost barely beginning. This story focuses on the intelligence of main characters, rather than their ability to be physical threats. I loved how this story was written in a 3rd person POV, because it allowed Rutkoski to go into detail and really show off the fantasy world she crafted. While this as a quieter story, there are bursts of action-packed moments, strategic manipulations, and a couple surprising revelations. Worldbuilding, characters, story – it was all fantastic.

Lowlights: It has a slightly slow beginning and a couple moments felt slightly rushed, but I have no big issues with this story. The ending was pretty brutal, emotionally. It leaves you wanting the sequel, desperately! 

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. I love this book, so it is going on the top shelves in the royal library where everyone can see it. I'd highly recommend The Winner's Curse, because it is an incredible story.

Review: THESE BROKEN STARS

Title: THESE BROKEN STARS
Authors: Amie Kaufman, Megan Spooner
Published: December 2013
Series: Starbound #1
Genre: YA Sci-fi / Romance
Pages: 374
POV: 1st person, dual
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Format: Hardcover
Source: Vine Program
Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf

It's a night like any other on board the Icarus. Then, catastrophe strikes: the massive luxury spaceliner is yanked out of hyperspace and plummets into the nearest planet. Lilac LaRoux and Tarver Merendsen survive. And they seem to be alone.

Lilac is the daughter of the richest man in the universe. Tarver comes from nothing, a young war hero who learned long ago that girls like Lilac are more trouble than they’re worth. But with only each other to rely on, Lilac and Tarver must work together, making a tortuous journey across the eerie, deserted terrain to seek help.

Then, against all odds, Lilac and Tarver find a strange blessing in the tragedy that has thrown them into each other’s arms. Without the hope of a future together in their own world, they begin to wonder—would they be better off staying here forever?

Everything changes when they uncover the truth behind the chilling whispers that haunt their every step. Lilac and Tarver may find a way off this planet. But they won’t be the same people who landed on it.

I understand why many people compare this story to Titanic, because These Broken Stars strongly resembles that tragedy in more ways than one. Lilac and Tarver are two of the many current residents of the Icarus¹. But, Lilac and Tarver are from two very different worlds: Lilac is the daughter of one of the most wealthy and influential men, and Tarver is a war hero from a humble background. When tragedy strikes, these two seemingly polar opposites come to rely on each other as they explore a strange new world, struggle to survive, and maybe fall in love.

While there are initially a few predictable moments, These Broken Stars captivates from the beginning and features quite a few shocking moments in the latter portion of the story. It was easy to become swept away by the two very intriguing and authentic points-of-view, the budding romance between the two narrators, and the mystery revolving around their unfortunate situation. The initial familiarity became comforting as I started to get to know the two protagonists, and I soon found myself rooting for both of them to make it through such a traumatic experience. I was expecting a story with a heavy dose of romance, so I was pleasantly surprised to find this is more of a survivalist story, with a genuine romance on the side. Exciting and thrilling, These Broken Stars is a magnificent tale of love, survival, and discovering the truth.

Highlights: The dual POV is top notch: Lilac and Tarver have their own distinct voices and personalities. Humor, romance, mystery, and more, These Broken Stars doesn't disappoint. The setting descriptions were marvelous, and made everything easy to visualize. I liked the little interruptions between chapters, involving an interview with Tarver regarding the tragedy. The romance takes some time to begin, and I'm glad that it took that time. 

Lowlights: Initially, it is a bit predictable, but that fades as the story continues. I wish more time had been spent aboard the Icarus, though.

Rating: The Royal Library, Middle Shelf. These Broken Stars is fantastic, worth owning, and has earned a spot in the royal library. I enjoyed this story very much, despite a few small issues, and would recommend this book to other readers.

1 Only a fool would name a spaceship Icarus, considering the legend. I mean, really. It's asking for trouble when you name something that flies after Icarus.

Review: STARRY NIGHTS by Daisy Whitney

Title: STARRY NIGHTS
Author: Daisy Whitney
Published: September 2013
Series: Standalone
Genre: YA
Publisher: Bloomsbury
POV: 1st person
Pages: 280
Format: e-ARC
Source: Netgalley
Rating: The Great Hall

Seventeen-year-old Julien is a romantic—he loves spending his free time at the museum poring over the great works of the Impressionists. But one night, a peach falls out of a Cezanne, Degas ballerinas dance across the floor, and Julien is not hallucinating.

The art is reacting to a curse that trapped a beautiful girl, Clio, in a painting forever. Julien has a chance to free Clio and he can't help but fall in love with her. But love is a curse in its own right. And soon paintings begin to bleed and disappear. Together Julien and Clio must save the world's greatest art . . . at the expense of the greatest love they've ever known.

Like a master painter herself, Daisy Whitney brings inordinate talent and ingenuity to this romantic, suspenseful, and sophisticated new novel. A beautifully decorated package makes it a must-own in print.

For Julian, art comes to life. As in, art actually comes to life. Once night falls, the artwork hanging in the museum leave their frames and step into real life. But while dancing Degas ballerinas are fun to watch, there's only one painting that Julian wants to see come to life: The Girl in the Garden. Thought to be long lost but recently found, there's something about her that captures Julian's attention. Add in a personality-filled Bonheur (and his awesome sister Sophie), a little magic dust, and an old enemy who is bent on claiming The Girl in The Garden, and you're in for an interesting story.

STARRY NIGHTS features fantastic characters and an even more intriguing concept. Yet, for all the fun that Julian & Co. provide, I was left wishing for more meaning and originality to the story. Whitney tugged at my emotions with her debut, THE MOCKINGBIRDS, so I was very surprised by how little I felt while reading this story. Simply put, STARRY NIGHTS is a cute and light read that will undeniably entertain readers in the mood for such a story, but it does not come close the excellency of Whitney's other works. If you're looking for a quick and fun library check-out, this book is for you. 

Highlights: Paintings come to life¹. I really liked Julian, Bonheur, Sophie, Emilie and other characters. I loved learning who Clio really was, especially since her true identity was an interesting twist. The art aspect was fantastic, though I wish we could have seen some of it in the story (if only pictures of the artwork could have been included, that would have been amazing).

Lowlights: The romance was unbelievable. As a crush? Sure. As love? No way. So when the l-word was introduced, I stopped believing in the romance. Also, for a Parisian boy, Julian sounds an awful lot like an American teenager. It's been my experience that people from anywhere tend to have their own local/cultural slang that comes with the territory of growing up in a certain area. If I hadn't been told that this story was set in Paris, I would have assumed it was meant to be Anywhere, USA.

Rating: The Great Hall (high 3 out of 5). This book was very likable, enough that I want a copy in the palace even if it doesn't earn a spot in the royal library. STARRY NIGHTS is a likable and entertaining novel, but there are a few issues. 

1 I took a few Art History classes early in college, and they were outstanding. So, it was very cool read about artwork I've studied before, especially in a story where they come to life. Although I'm not going to lie, the Mona Lisa's secret was slightly underwhelming.

Review: CRESS by Marissa Meyer

Title: CRESS
Author: Marissa Meyer
Published: February 4th, 2014
Series: The Lunar Chronicles #3
Genre: YA Sci-fi / Fantasy
Pages: 560
POV: 3rd, multiple alternating
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Format: Printed ARC
Source: Publicist
Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf

Rapunzel’s tower is a satellite. She can’t let down her hair—or her guard.

In this third book in the bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, who has been trapped on a satellite since childhood with only her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker—unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing stop her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only ones who can.

I liked CINDER, loved SCARLET, and adored Meyer's latest installment in the Lunar Chronicles, CRESS. With each novel, Meyer's writing grows more captivating, entertaining, and surprising as she takes each major and minor storyline in intriguing directions. CRESS picks up where SCARLET left off, and the excitement level kicks up a few notches right from the very beginning. Prepare yourself for journeys across deserts, adventures in space, fight scenes, and plenty of Carswell Thorne being as fabulous as Carswell Thorne can possibly be. I had high hopes for this novel, and Meyer succeeded in creating a wonderfully entertaining novel from start to the finish.

I'm going to keep quiet about specific plot points, since Meyer's books are better experienced without knowing too many details. With CRESS, readers gain the opportunity to see a bit more of the Lunars. We only receive glimpses into Lunar life, along with the small tidbits of knowledge Cress shares (since she is a Lunar shell, but this skilled hacker hasn't had the easiest life because of her shell status), but it's enough to make me very curious about the next novel. Fortunately, there is still plenty more to enjoy in this novel. This story is filled with action, secrets, adorable budding romances, humor, and so much more. If you are not reading this series, I'd highly recommend you start these novels soon, because you are in a for a delightful and surprising twist on some of your favorite classic fairytales.

Highlights: Meyer excels at balancing a large cast and doing each character justice when it comes to the different perspectives, not to the mention the multiple storylines. Cress is a fabulous addition to the cast since her timid strength and dreamy, hopeful nature created a nice contrast to Scarlet's toughness and Cinder's more serious nature. Even Captain Thorne managed to surprise me, because under his humorous and slightly selfish personality, there really is a guy with a heart of (mostly) gold. Also, Iko is a definite highlight¹.

Lowlights: It ended? I wanted a bit more with the Lunars. The wait for WINTER (Snow White retelling, set on the moon - yes, the moon) is going to be a nightmare, because I need that book now.

Rating: The Royal Library, Top Shelf. CRESS is a wonderful sci-fi / fantasy twist on familiar fairytales, with quite a few surprises in store for readers. If you're looking for a fun, exciting series to start reading, I'd highly suggest checking out the Lunar Chronicles.

1 No surprise there. Iko rocks.